Classes

Aiki is not a technique to fight with or defeat an enemy. It is the way to reconcile the world and make humanity one family.

— Morihei Ueshiba

Adults and teens

Classes for Adults and Teens

Winter 2019 Schedule – Adults and teens

Tuesdays: 6-7:30 pm – Adults and teens

7:30-8:30 – Introductory class

Wednesdays: 6-7:30 – Adults and teens

Fridays: 6-7:30 – Adults and teens

Saturdays: 9:00-10:00 – Meditation & silent practice

10:00-11:00 – Adults and teens

Instructors: Philipp Gawthrop, 5th dan and Alix Flavelle, 4th dan

Our practice emphasizes spontaneity, the capacity to respond quickly and intelligently to changes in the interaction. This requires sensitivity to our partner’s movement, flexibility of mind, being relaxed under pressure. We study the full repetoire of classical Aikido techniques, the common language of Aikido, with a focus on timing and positioning and non-resistance so we may be relaxed and composed. We also take an exploratory and creative approach to Aikido study – expanding our awareness of space and lines and energy – from a foundation of basic principles. Hence our name: “kenkyukai” means study or research group.

Adult classes are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings and Saturday mornings at the Scouts Hall in Gyro Park, Cadboro Bay.

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Fees

Adults regular: $190 for 3 months, or $65 monthly

Getting started: $30 monthly for first three months

Drop-in from other dojos: $10/class

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Testimonials

“Corrie and I agree that our experience at Pacific Shizen Aikido has been thoroughly positive. We find Phillip, Miryam and Alix to be gracious, patient and talented as teachers, not to mention, fun to spend time with. The atmosphere of respect, egalitarianism, safety and regard for Aikido traditions at the dojo feels right. As Corrie and I fast approach our fifties, we realize that physical health is more important than ever. The relaxation techniques and Aikido practice during our twice weekly sessions are immensely positive in our lives. We are constantly amazed at what we are learning to do with our bodies and always feel refreshed and satisfied after our Aikido session.”

~Richard

“…two evenings a week for two months now at age forty-six, I’ve been running away to join this gentle, tumbling zen circus at gyro park where smallish women throw my two hundred and twenty pound body with the greatest of ease and a safe landing; where we all bow to each other with equal respect, and the flower arrangements are near perfect. That a martial art could be a way of peace would have, until now, struck me as oxymoronic. Not so, now.”

~Andy

“I moved to the island with eight years of Hapkido training, looking for an Aikido dojo to best complement the teachings of my former discipline. It has been a year and I feel my focus sharpening, my ability to flow and blend improving, and most importantly, my knowledge of using body mechanics and gravity, without the use of muscle and force, both fascinating and rewarding. There is a calm, peaceful and tolerant atmosphere in this dojo lead by teachers who embody the teaching of the art of peace. “